Mayank Yadav to miss the first half of IPL 2025, dealing a blow to Lucknow Super Giants

Lucknow Super Giants have suffered a big blow as fast bowler Mayank Yadav is likely to miss the first half of the IPL 2025 due to a back injury, according to a report by ESPNCricinfo. Mayank was retained by the franchise for ₹11 crore before the 2025 mega auction, but his injury has now put his availability for the early part of the season in doubt.

Mayank is recovering from a lumbar stress injury at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and has started bowling again. He has been undergoing rehab since he got injured during the T20I series against Bangladesh last year.

Mayank grabbed everyone's attention in IPL 2024 with his ability to consistently bowl over 150 kmph with great accuracy. He played four matches last season and took seven wickets. The Delhi-born fast bowler was named Player of the Match in his first two games after delivering match-winning performances against Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

His season was cut short because of a side strain, which needed rehab. Unfortunately, while recovering, he got injured again. Later, he was called up to play for India in the T20I series against Bangladesh in October last year and played in all three matches of the home series. However, he picked up another injury and had to return for more rehab.

The report mentioned that the Indian Board hasn’t given any clear update on Mayank’s injury. However, it’s believed that he is dealing with a stress-related problem in his lower back. If he manages to recover well and builds up his bowling workload properly, he might be able to play in the second half of the tournament.

Mayank was bought for ₹20 lakh before IPL 2024. However, his value has shot up significantly after delivering some outstanding performances in the tournament.

LSG's team director and former India fast bowler, Zaheer Khan, mentioned last month that the franchise is in touch with the Indian Board to bring Mayank back, but they want him to be fully fit before he returns to the team. "As much as we are keen on having him [play IPL 2025], we want him 150% fit not just 100% fit so we'll do everything possible to get him there," he said.

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